Man who took his life in falls identified as college student

NIAGARA FALLS – A man who witnesses said took his life by walking into the Niagara River above the falls at Goat Island has been identified by Houghton College.

College officials said on their website that they were “deeply saddened by the presumed death” of Gregory Young, a 21-year-old student from North Carolina who was a junior in theological studies.

State Parks Police searched unsuccessfully by air and on land looking for a body Monday, according to State Parks Police Maj. David Page.

While the body had not been recovered, evidence suggests that Young took his own life by entering the rapids above the falls Saturday evening, police said.

“We are shocked and saddened by the untimely loss to our community,” Houghton College President Shirley Mullen said on the college website. “Greg Young was an accomplished young scholar with a promising future in theological study. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and his many friends and colleagues during these difficult days.”

A special chapel service was held Monday and the counseling center at the school offered extended hours for those who were struggling with the loss. Counselors and student life staff were also made available.